Family events in Winter Haven, FL

Car enthusiasts gather at Bonnet Springs Park for a monthly meet-up that welcomes exotic, classic, luxury, hot rod, and import vehicles. The gathering takes place in the parking area across from the welcome center, where visitors can browse the lineup or showcase their own car. Coffee and breakfast items are available for purchase, and no registration is needed to participate.

The Shore to Shorecrest 5K is an annual community event celebrating the Chargers spirit in the Tampa Bay Area. It symbolizes a journey from Shorecrest Outdoor School, founded in 1923, to the current campus, established in 1967, which is approximately 3.1 miles away.

Presented by Orlando Speed World, Night of Fire delivers high-horsepower thrills with Top Fuel machines, funny cars, jet dragsters, a jet truck, and a fireworks show, with more attractions to be revealed. Updates will be shared as plans are finalized. For questions or additional details, contact osw@raceosw.com.

Toddler Time offers a chance for children from crawlers through age 6 to play and explore in Launch Orlando’s 50,000-square-foot indoor park without older children around. The experience includes toddler-friendly music, a soft play playground, trampolines, and massage chairs for parents. Families can bring their own coffee, and the indoor setting provides fun in any weather. Admission is $15 for one toddler and one parent, with jump socks additional.

Two celebrations come together with the Annual Wheels for Veterans show paired with the first GM Dealership Takeover at the Dyer dealerships in Lake Wales. GM cars and trucks will fill Dyer Chevrolet, while the Kia dealership will host all other makes and models. All makes, models, and years are welcome, except squatted trucks. The goal is to pack the lots so there is hardly any space left for the regular inventory, making this a first-of-its-kind takeover for these locations. Attendees can look forward to music, food, event merchandise, a selection of vendors, and a few awards. Organizers are also seeking sponsors, with earlier commitments receiving more visibility.

FIRE, the Florida International Reptile Expo, gathers the world of reptiles and exotic animals under one roof for two days of activity at the Florida State Fairgrounds Expo Hall in Tampa. Attendees can see a wide variety of live animals from around the globe, purchase pets and care products directly from experienced vendors, discover specialty supplies at great prices, and take part in educational offerings for all ages. Planned to be almost twice the size of Repticon Tampa, this edition is billed as the largest Repticon show to date, bringing together incredible animals, knowledgeable experts, and family-friendly experiences.

Market @ Auburndale's Fall Fest is accepting vendor applications across a variety of categories, including crafters, candle makers, jewelry designers, signs and home decor, food trucks, artisans, crochet and other handmade items, baked goods, face painting, and nonprofit organizations. Similar offerings are also invited.

Maker Faire Orlando 2026 brings a world-renowned celebration of invention, creativity, and curiosity to Central Florida Fairgrounds and Exposition Park. Explore maker culture across a huge range of exhibits, large-scale art and spectacle, stage talks, competitions, and plenty of hands-on opportunities to build and learn. Creators who make, play, tinker, and hack share projects spanning robotics, cosplay, STEM and STEAM, content creation, science, electronics, tools and materials, and many surprising inventions you might not have seen before. Every ticket includes Robot Ruckus, the combat robot competition featuring teams from across the U.S., along with robots on display from the BattleBots TV show. Most exhibits and activity areas run throughout the weekend, while stage talks, panels, timed demonstrations, and competitions happen at scheduled times. Key details for attendees include rain-or-shine operation and a no refunds or exchanges policy. Tickets cannot be replaced or transferred to another Faire, but they may be transferred to another attendee before use. Student tickets apply to college students with a current college ID. First responders, active military, and veterans receive free admission with identification. Employees of schools, colleges, universities, and libraries also receive free admission with identification. Weekend passes are not shareable, and single day passes are valid for one day only. After purchase, tickets can be shown on a mobile device at the gate or printed at home. A dedicated Field Trip Day invites students, teachers, and homeschool families to experience hands-on learning, creativity, and innovation. Free on-site parking is available nearby. Outside food or beverages are not permitted unless required for medical, dietary, or religious reasons, and a variety of food options will be available for purchase. Strollers, backpacks, and a bottle of water are allowed. Pets are not permitted for their safety, while trained service animals as defined by the ADA are welcome. The event spans three large indoor exhibit halls and also features outdoor exhibits and competitions. Ticket proceeds benefit The Maker Effect Foundation, a 501(c)(3) educational charity in Orlando, Florida. Maker Faire Orlando is independently organized and operated under license from Make: Community, LLC, and the project is funded in part by Orange County Government through the Arts & Cultural Affairs Program.

Returning as Bartow Florida's only indoor comic convention, this event features guest stars, activities, food, a costume contest, and many unique vendors. Attendees can explore offerings from vendors, take part in activities, and experience everything in one convenient indoor setting.

A community Jeep event at Mosaic Park in Bartow features Jeeps, live music, food, and family activities, all in support of the Breast Cancer Foundation of Central Florida. Jeep registration is $25 and includes entry in the Jeep Show and Shine. Activities include food trucks, a kids zone with bounce houses and games, live music by Quittin’ Time, vendors, raffles, and healthcare buses. Funds raised stay in Central Florida to help local patients and families with day to day needs during treatment.

Downtown Haines City transforms into a festive fall market filled with local flavor. Small business vendors feature tasty treats, handmade crafts, one of a kind gifts, and other goodies. A small pumpkin patch with a photo area offers a cheerful backdrop for autumn snapshots. The setting is family friendly and pet friendly, welcoming visitors of all ages. A bake off may be part of the festivities, with bakers potentially sharing their best creations and attendees possibly tasting, voting, and cheering for a winner. The market offers a relaxed stroll, plenty of seasonal atmosphere, and chances to support neighborhood makers.

Explore a collection of striking contemporary residences throughout the Tampa area and experience modern living up close. Visit five distinctive homes at your own pace during tour hours, in any order you choose. Your ticket provides entry to all participating locations, and the architects and design teams will be on site to share insights into their work and answer questions. Spend the day discovering innovative layouts, thoughtful details, and fresh ideas for residential design in Tampa.

Celebrate 46 years of learning, laughter, creativity, and connection. Browse vendors offering arts and crafts, books, and more, and take part in a basket raffle and a 50/50 raffle. Everyone is invited to bring family and friends for a fun day and shop for unique gifts for themselves or others.

Ladybug Bows will be at Fiesta in the Park, a family- and pet-friendly event featuring arts, crafts, food, and entertainment at Lake Eola.

Bank of America, Merrill, and Private Bank credit and debit cardholders can receive one complimentary general admission to Orlando Science Center through the Museums on Us program. The admission includes access to the Center’s four floors of exhibits and experiences, including giant-screen films and workshops in The Hive: A Makerspace for ages 8 and up. Cardholders must present their eligible card and matching photo ID at Guest Services. Non-cardholders, including children, are not eligible for free admission.

Designed for young students, this aviation program combines approximately 1.5 hours of interactive group ground training with about an hour of one-on-one, hands-on flight instruction from an FAA-certified flight instructor. Students learn aviation fundamentals and have the opportunity to operate a training aircraft under the instructor’s supervision. Parents may sit in the back seat during the flight when space and operating conditions permit. A 12-week youth aviation program is also available for students who wish to continue building a foundation for future pilot certificates, ratings, or a career in aviation.

Celebrate the opening of Sable Social Co.’s new downtown Bartow space. Stop by to explore, meet the team, and learn about a community gathering place offering activities and events such as kids’ activities, workshops, mom meetups, bookish events, adult nights, private parties, and pop-ups. The celebration is free to attend, and an RSVP is requested.

Celebrate five years of St. Pete Reads! Lit Fest, a celebration of books, culture, and community featuring author talks, storytime, and panels.

Enjoy a day of food, fun, and reconnecting at Carter Pavilion. The A3F will provide food and beverages, and guests are welcome to bring a dish to share, though it is not required. RSVPs are suggested to help organizers know who is coming. Park entrance fees apply: $2 per person, or $5 for a vehicle with more than one person.

Teams fan out across downtown St. Pete for a purpose-filled scavenger hunt, tackling creative challenges, earning points, and discovering local gems. The adventure begins at Welcome to the Farm and wraps up with an after-party and awards at Good Night John Boy. Admission is $35 and includes entry to the hunt, an event T-shirt, a DJ-fueled celebration, one drink, and lunch provided by Gateway Subs. Prizes are presented to the top fundraising team, the highest scoring team, and the best team costume. Participants can boost their impact by fundraising in advance, with every dollar helping CASA break the silence and build a violence free Pinellas while supporting survivors in the community.

At The Bay Community Church in Tampa, the 11th annual chili fundraiser features a spread of chili varieties prepared by the Trailmen, along with raffle baskets that include items such as camping gear and tickets for family outings. Proceeds support the 2026/27 troop year by covering trip and activity expenses like campground fees, a zipline course, and a mountain man breakfast, as well as equipment and supplies that keep the program running, including kayaks, cooking gear, charcoal, fishing bait, instructional rope, paint and maintenance for the storage trailer and its lights, plus BBs and slingshot pellets. Funds also help provide awards such as The Standard walking staff for older boys, badges and pins, project materials like Pinewood Derby car kits, and scholarships for families with financial need. In addition to the chili event, the troop is holding a clay shooting fundraiser this year, with no barbecue planned, to help keep annual dues low while supporting activities that build skills in camping, hiking, backpacking, kayaking, woodworking, cooking, archery, shooting, biking, fishing, woodsmanship, ropework, orienteering, knife use, and fire safety. Admission is $15 for adults and $10 for children under 13. Raffle tickets are $5 each, or five for $20.

Inspired by the childhood of Mexican painter Frida Kahlo, this uplifting story features physical acting that transforms performers into trees, trains, and sinks, along with delightful songs exploring friendship, bravery, and transformation. Recommended for all ages.

Enjoy a lively community gathering with food trucks, live entertainment, spades and friendly competition, and activities for kids. The celebration brings people of all ages together for community fun in St. Petersburg.

A Beyblade X playoff brings together teams, Bladers from different cities, and new players for six Swiss-format rounds. The event has a 64-player cap, with the top 16 advancing. Matches are first to four, best of three, with one reshoot per set for an out-of-stadium result. First-, second-, and third-place finishers receive custom gold, silver, and bronze Beyblade X and Dave & Buster’s T-shirts. For participants traveling from at least an hour and a half away who prepay, entry is $15 and includes a play card.

The Ruck Sack Race at Harbor Park, now known as Glenda Hood Park, is a family-friendly event supporting Camaraderie Foundation. Participants can walk, run, or complete a one mile ruck to honor veterans, service members, and their families. Registration and sponsorship information will be available soon.

In Downtown Bartow, streets become an open-air gallery as artists transform pavement into vibrant works of chalk art. Ikon Boats is the presenting sponsor and will showcase two bass boats during the festival. Chalk artist Brian Morris of Studio M Art will create a piece live for spectators to see it take shape on the concrete. Hospitality partners include Hampton Inn by Hilton Bartow and Holiday Inn Express in Bartow. Additional support comes from Visit Central Florida, Patel, Greene & Associates, Boswell & Dunlap, Bartow EDC, Sackett Properties, Orlando Health, Republic Services, Unfiltered Bartow, S&D Real Estate Services, Citizens Bank & Trust, and the Roshel Corcoran Team NMLS # 936282. Admission is free.

A longtime Downtown Orlando tradition, this farmers market brings the community together at Lake Eola Park. Visitors can browse local vendors and small businesses, including Local Tomatoes LLC, which offers fresh fruits, vegetables, seasonal produce, and farm-fresh eggs. Enjoy a walk around the lake while shopping local and supporting small businesses.

Explore practical ways to care for your health at this free community expo. The offerings include health screenings, chair massages, dental information, an on-site medical doctor, natural health education with Mamon Wilson, and free clothing and groceries. Everyone is welcome.

Free Family Funday at the Mennello Museum of American Art offers free admission, docent led gallery tours, and a hands-on fine art project. Each month brings a new activity inspired by current exhibitions, designed for children and families. Tours are open to everyone. Video instructions are available to recreate the projects at home. Presented with support from VyStar Credit Union and Orlando Health.

Watch the Bucs take on the Bears on the big screens of a historic drive-in theatre. Guests can enjoy the game from their vehicles under the stars. Admission is $20 per car, and an advance ticket is required.

Kids can eat free with the purchase of an adult meal. Happy hour is also available.

Kids can eat free with the purchase of an adult meal. Happy hour is also available.

Explore specialized magnet programs and meet school representatives to learn how different schools can support students’ interests, talents, and future goals. Opportunities include STEM, robotics, the arts, accelerated academics, and more. Families with elementary school students or those planning ahead can ask questions and explore their options.

Help Me Grow hosts a free Books, Balls & Blocks developmental screening at the West Osceola Library. Families can explore open play stations with books, balls, blocks, and other hands-on activities while learning about their child’s development. As children play and discover, parents complete a developmental milestones questionnaire. The screening is simple and low pressure, helping celebrate strengths, track progress, and highlight areas where extra support might be helpful. No appointment is required, and walk-ins are welcome.

Celebrate the start of the Christmas season with an evening of holiday lights, a visit and photos with Santa Cow, face painting by Parties With A Splash, and Christmas carols performed by the Four Corners Upper School Choir.

Lenny Pearce’s Toddler Rave World Tour brings big beats and little feet together for a family rave designed to wrap up before bedtime.

AEG Presents offers a 40th anniversary in-concert presentation of Jim Henson's Labyrinth at The Plaza Live. This event is open to all ages.

Bring a favorite teddy bear or stuffed friend for a cozy morning of stories, giggles, a craft, and play. This activity is perfect for little ones and their grown-ups. The cost is $5 per family.

Super Soccer Stars introduces children to soccer fundamentals through fun, non-competitive classes designed around their developmental needs. Positive reinforcement, a low child-to-coach ratio, and progressive lesson plans help children build confidence and learn at their own pace. Activities encourage physical development, body and ball awareness, language exposure, and positive social interaction, with opportunities for running, hopping, jumping, dribbling, and shooting. Parent participation is incorporated into classes for this age group. The Parent & Me program, developed in partnership with Amazing Athletes, is designed for toddlers ages 12 to 24 months and features individual attention, original music, and playful activities that help little ones practice balancing, running, kicking, and playing.

Meet Millie Second, an inventor from another time who has landed in the present without knowing how she got there or how to return home. Her time machine, The Chord Explorer, will not start, and its instruction manual is missing key pages. The maestro, musicians, and audience use their musical minds to help power the machine as the adventure travels through eras from the Renaissance to the Roaring ’20s, the space race, and the gold rush. Presented by the Orlando Philharmonic Orchestra in partnership with Orange County Public Schools, the program is performed for more than 65,000 local public-school students each year.

The 33rd annual FuelTech World Street Nationals brings a multi day drag racing showcase to Orlando Speed World Dragway, highlighted by the signature Race for the Wally. Ticket options include a 3 day pass for $85, a 2 day pass for $60 available at the gate, and a 1 day pass for $30 at the gate. Children 10 and under are admitted free. VIP parking is $100, a golf cart pass is $100, and RV parking is $160. The program features an opening day test session priced at $200, followed by multiple qualifying rounds across the event. Details on classes and payouts will be announced soon. For sponsorships, vendor booths, or additional information, contact fernando@raceosw.com or 407-568-5522.

A karate class for homeschool students takes place on Thursdays.

Explore ancient, modern, and contemporary art at the Tampa Museum of Art with pay-as-you-will admission. Visitors choose what they would like to pay, and any donation amount is welcome. The museum’s exhibitions celebrate 100 years of art in Tampa.

Australian DJ and producer Lenny Pearce brings a high-energy live show for families and dance music fans. Familiar children’s songs and pop moments become upbeat dance tracks in a fun, colorful performance.

Experience astonishing card tricks from Magic Jim in the Tap Room. The performance is family-friendly, and half-off bottles of wine are available at the Tap Room restaurant at the HH. Reservations are requested for parties of six or more.

Enjoy free, weekly team trivia featuring general knowledge questions for a wide range of ages. Play with friends, coworkers, or family, or connect with others and join a team. There are $100 in prizes to win each week.

Healthy St. Pete and Play it Forward Pediatrics offer a supportive exercise class for parents and their babies. Learn safe exercise positions for you and your little one while building strength, bonding, and developing healthy movement habits together. Separate sessions are available for parents of children who are not yet walking and those whose children are walking. Admission is free, and registration is not required.

This multi-sport program introduces children ages 2½ to 6 to the fundamentals of 10 sports in a fun, non-competitive setting. Through interactive lessons and age-appropriate equipment, children build physical literacy, develop six key motor skills, and learn about nutrition and muscle identification. Weekly classes encourage patience, teamwork, and self-confidence in a nurturing environment, with variety and repetition to support each child’s skill development and progress at their own pace.

Marking its twentieth year, the SUSC Soccer Competition highlights a legacy of faith, competitive play, and fellowship. This milestone gathering honors a long-running tradition of coming together around the game and the shared values that have sustained it.

Everyone is welcome at this free gathering focused on cars and community. Owners of any make, model, or year can display their rides, creating a wide-ranging showcase for enthusiasts and casual observers.

Enjoy a neon-themed night featuring live DJs, glowing lights, arcade games, climbing walls, and unlimited attractions. Families, teens, and friends can jump, dance, and compete, with an epic grand finale show rounding out the experience.

An adults-only parents’ night out focused on parenting and pregnancy. Learn, laugh, and leave with confidence, with giveaways included.